I was so foolish and ignorant— I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you.
Do you think we are mere animals? Do you think we are stupid?
Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.”
Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind.
O God, you know how foolish I am; my sins cannot be hidden from you.
Only a simpleton would not know, and only a fool would not understand this:
Though the wicked sprout like weeds and evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever.
I am too stupid to be human, and I lack common sense.
I also thought about the human condition—how God proves to people that they are like animals.
Even an ox knows its owner, and a donkey recognizes its master’s care— but Israel doesn’t know its master. My people don’t recognize my care for them.”